Many parents with an intellectually disabled child experience concern with regard to their child’s ability to cope on his or her own once they reach adulthood. Naturally, parents are worried about the coping strategies a young person should develop as the older generation ages, or becomes gradually incapable of caring for their child with the same protective dedication as before.
Achieving independence for an intellectually disabled person is a multi-faceted and dynamic process that requires a specialised holistic approach. Parents and carers are acutely aware how limitations in cognitive functioning and adaptive behaviourcan impact an individual’s ability to live independently.
However, with appropriate support, encouragement, and individually-focused strategies, individuals with intellectual disabilities can develop essential life skills and gain a measure of independence that enhances their quality of life, and ultimately fosters their inclusion in society.
Early intervention combined with an understanding of the support the child requires as an individual: Early intervention is crucial for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Identifying the disability at an early age allows for timely intervention and support tailored to the person’s specific needs and strengths. Early intervention programmes may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and educational interventions aimed at developing foundational skills.
Access to education that is geared to the varied learning capacities of ID individuals: It’s hardly necessary to say that access to quality education is a fundamental right for all individuals, but it’s especially important with respect to those who have intellectual disabilities. Inclusive education, where students with disabilities are educated alongside their peers without disabilities, fosters socialisation and helps build essential academic and life skills. These life skills are fundamental to ID students in achieving greater independence and the capability to handle different situations on their own.
Developing various life skills is key to independence: Activities should begin with the basics: dressing, grooming, meal preparation, and personal hygiene. Occupational therapy and life skills training are proven to help intellectually disabled individuals develop practical skills that foster independence and self-reliance.
Improving employment opportunities through finding the right vocation: Meaningful employment is an essential aspect of achieving independence. It’s important in this regard for individuals to engage in vocational training programmes that will help them acquire job-related skills and prepare for the workforce. Supported employment initiatives and inclusive workplaces promote an inclusive society, allowing intellectually disabled individuals to contribute to their communities and gain a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
The importance of social and emotional development in the teaching of coping skills: Social and emotional development is crucial for building relationships, fostering self-esteem, and developing a sense of belonging. Social skills training, group activities, and community engagement can help intellectually disabled individuals navigate social interactions and build meaningful connections with others, all of which is vital for operating independently.
The value of money and money management: Understanding money is essential for independence. Teaching budgeting skills, understanding money management, and encouraging financial responsibility can empower intellectually disabled individuals to make informed decisions and achieve greater autonomy and confidence.
The comfort of community involvement: There is no doubt that encouraging participation in community activities, recreational programmes, and social events, fosters a sense of belonging and promotes social integration. Community support and acceptance play a crucial role in helping intellectually disabled individuals lead fulfilling lives.
Empowering decision-making: Empowering intellectually disabled individuals to make choices and have control over their lives is crucial for fostering independence. They must be guided and encouraged to have a say in decisions that affect their lives, promoting a sense of greater confidence, self-determination and autonomy.
It’s a family business and a network affair: Family support is vital for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Families provide a nurturing and encouraging environment. Family assist with access to necessary services, and enhance inclusion in various aspects of life. Family, friends, caregivers, educators, therapists, and other professionals provide a strong network of collaboration with a comprehensive approach to addressing the needs and goals of the intellectually disabled individual.
The story of Sunfield Home
Chris and Lynne Bennett, parents of a young girl with Down Syndrome, pursued their dream of establishing a home for their daughter and other intellectually disabled young adults in the Western Cape. Together with other parents, they founded the Sunfield Home in Wellington, providing a loving and nurturing environment for over 100 residents and day-care adult individuals.
Each individual is screened to evaluate their strengths and allocate activities according to their abilities. A protective workshop has been established where contract work is undertaken, as well as arts and crafts activities. An employment scheme has also been developed, and as a result permanent and successful positions have been found within the surrounding wine and cheese industries.
Find out more about us at: www.sunfieldhome.co.za
